4 Paws Blog

Who said you can't teach an old dog new tricks? As time continues to tick and Governor Baker's Stay At Home Advisory stretches into May, many of us are getting a head-start on some Spring Cleaning. Before you toss your old clothes into a bag to be donated, take a look at how easy it can be to take old clothes and make new toys! These toys are a great way to learn to braid. If you don't want to braid, check out how we used a hol-ee roller toy and simple knots to make a toy.

STEP 1: Gather up old tshirts

Look though what you have and what could be used. You can try using different textures together for an even more interesting toy. Cotton, Fleece, even Denim can work, as long as you can tie a knot in it. Fun colors and patterns will make a fun toy for both you and your furry friend!

STEP 2: Cut into strips & knot 3 strips together

Use scissors to cut your shirts into 2-3 inch strips that can be tied together. Cut around the bottom of your shirt, or cut lengthwise for even longer rope toys.

You can tie together more than 3 strips for a thicker rope toy! You can find patterns to weave together more than 3 strips online, too.

STEP 3: Braid the strips together and knot the end

Braid the strips together, stopping at the end. Tie the strips in a knot at the end and cut off any excess so the ends are the same length.

For other fun braid patterns, including braiding more than 3 strips, check out this page.

It's that simple! You can use this as a toy itself, or try braiding other round toys or treats into the toy. Here are a few variations you can try at home, with other toys you may already have:

Tie a ball that already has holes in it onto your toy. Tie knots onto either side of the ball and braid the remaining ends. You can also cut holes into tennis balls and tie them into a toy.

Hol-ee Roller Balls are another great toy to tie fabric strips to (What's a Hol-ee roller? Check them out here!). Cut up shorter strips and tie onto the ball. Makes a great tug toy, or an added challenge to get treats out of the middle!

Bonus! Knot strips together into a small Cat Toy

Tie a few strips together into a small knot that you cat can bat around the floor with their paws. You can sprinkle cat nip into the knot before tying for added encouragement.

Tie a string and attach to a stick to create a kitty wand toy!

ENJOY!

Have other DIY ideas? We would love to see them! Tag us on social media or email your creative creations to volunteer@capeannanimalaid.org